Microsoft Surface Pro review

Surface Pro is on this list for one reason: it runs full Windows, so desktop drawing and design software runs on a tablet you can hold. Microsoft's US page lists the 12-inch model at $1,149.99 and the 13-inch at $1,199.99. The 12-inch has a 2196 x 1464 PixelSense LCD at 90 Hz, while the 13-inch offers OLED or LCD at 2880 x 1920 and 120Hz, which is the better pick for drawing. Both list up to 15.5 hours of video playback and use Snapdragon X2 chips. The optional Surface Slim Pen reads 4,096 points of pressure, and Microsoft says the Slim Pen and keyboard are sold separately, which pushes the real cost higher. The kickstand holds the screen at an angle on a desk. Compared with iPad Pro, you trade some screen quality and pen sensitivity for Windows app compatibility.

Who it is for

artists who need full Windows apps on a tablet

Price

From $1,149.99 for the 12-inch model; Surface Slim Pen sold separately.

Surface Pro 12-inch $1,149.99 Buy
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 13, 2026.

Key features

• 12-inch PixelSense LCD at 2196 x 1464 and 90 Hz
• 13-inch option with OLED or LCD at 2880 x 1920 and 120Hz
• Optional Surface Slim Pen with 4,096 points of pressure
• Snapdragon X2 Plus or Snapdragon X2 Elite processors
• Up to 15.5 hours of video playback

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Runs full Windows desktop apps
• Strength: 13-inch model offers an optional OLED screen at 120Hz
• Strength: Built-in kickstand for drawing at an angle
• Weakness: Surface Slim Pen and keyboard are sold separately
• Weakness: 4,096 pressure levels on the Slim Pen
• Weakness: The 12-inch model runs at 90 Hz, below the 120Hz on iPad Pro

Key facts

• Price: From $1,149.99 (13-inch from $1,199.99)
• Screen: 12-inch LCD 90 Hz or 13-inch OLED/LCD 120Hz
• Pen: Surface Slim Pen, sold separately
• Battery: Up to 15.5 hours video playback
• Chip: Snapdragon X2 Plus or X2 Elite

Where it ranks

Microsoft Surface Pro is No. 10 in our Best Drawing Tablets verdict.